A lot of people aren’t aware that in order to export specific animal goods out of the EU You need the Export Health Certificate (EHC). This can include however, it is not only limited to eggs, dairy, meat and other animal-related products. Only a licensed veterinarian (OV) who has to be a certified vet surgeon, can issue an EHC which is why we’ve written this blog article to provide a brief guideline for the things to be looking for when selecting an OV.
Can any vet be a signer on an official export medical certificate?
The simple answer is not. Only an official vet surgeon (OV) that is appointed by DEFRA to sign government documentation on behalf of DEFRA is able to sign EHCs. Based on where in your country you’re exporting, EHCs may be required to:
Meat (beef lamb, pork as well as venison, poultry and other processed meat items)
Dairy (milk, dairy products like yoghurt, whey cheese, butter, cheese & Ice cream)
Skins, hides, wool and feathers
Collagen, gelatin & casings
Eggs
Products from the fishery and fishing industry
Laboratory
Pet food and animal feed
Miscellaneous
The official veterinarians are appointed to a panel e.g. PX (product exports ), which includes products from animals, such as those mentioned above) They received a more rigorous education on export documentation and are subjected to regular renewal of their certification.
How can I be sure I’m picking the correct veterinary professional?
There are very only a few vets selected to this panel and are actively involved in this area. There are number of factors to be aware of when choosing an OV. They include:
Experience – Do they have previous experience with the country and product that you are interested in?
Quality – can they deliver an excellent service?
Reliability – Will they show up on time , do what they say and then complete as well as return EHCs on time?
Ability to work – are they able to be available to work in the required timeframe? Are they able to work on weekends and late into the night if required?
Location – Can they reach your location or to the location of export?
Contacts – Are they regularly in communication with associations for trade, e.g. DIT, APHA and other organizations in the industry to ensure that they’re up-to-date with the most recent legislation and certificate modifications?
Familiar – do you have a designated contact person so that you can get a vet who really understands your business instead of having a different person show up every time?
Proactive – Can they research new markets with you in order to increase and expand your company?
Informative – do they frequently update their latest news, updates and other information on their website, email, and social media?
The best part is that we satisfy all of the above requirements as well as, thanks to the many years of experience and many satisfied customers, we’ve gained thorough understanding of the legal requirements for exporting as well as the global markets that are open to customers.
What can we do to assist you with your needs for exporting?
We provide dependable quick, efficient, and high-quality service that is tailored to meet your specific needs. In our advice services we can assist you identify potential markets for exports to expand your company.
Our veterinarians are licensed and have extensive knowledge of the entire process of exporting and have close connections with trade associations and other organizations who work to increase education and awareness about exports. As part of our approach to proactive we’ll assist you in ensuring that you fully comprehend your needs as a business.
Start exporting now.
If you believe you’re ready for your journey towards exporting today, call us for an initial telephone appointment or via email with one of our experts from our veterinarians.
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